Habiba Al Mara’shi, Chairperson of Emirates Environmental Group, EEG, has said that as sectors converge, populations grow and communities change, we need to think more holistically about our infrastructure planning.

Speaking at panel discussion on "Rethinking Infrastructure by incorporating spheres of sustainability: People, Planet, Peace, Prosperity & Partnerships, she said, "How we live, work, connect with each other and sustain our scarce resources need to be incorporated into our plans for a sustainable future."

Held at Fairmont The Palm Hotel, the aim of the event was to discuss rethinking Infrastructure by incorporating spheres of sustainability: People, Planet, Peace, Prosperity and Partnerships, 'five Ps'. It was organised by EEG, in association with Arabia CSR Network, Emirates Green Building Council and United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP. The Emirates Global Aluminium, EGA, sponsored the event.

The panel discussion brought to light the importance of incorporating the five P’s of sustainability in remodelling our current infrastructure for moving towards a sustainable future. Participating on the panel was a strong team, with each representing the spheres of sustainability. DNV-GL, an international accredited registrar and classification society headquartered near Oslo, Norway, presented the people part to support economic development by generating job opportunities through infrastructure development.

Jon Woodhead, Regional Manager UK of DNV-GL stated, "rethinking the Power Businesses in terms of renewables can provide 24 million jobs by 2030."

Saeed Al Abbar, Chairman of EGBC spoke about how effective partnerships are crucial in planning and developing infrastructure development, he said, "Working with other associations in the industry has proven to be a key success factor in building our capacity building program. Our involvement today serves as a great example of how we can support one another."